Electoral Commission (EC) has dismissed claims that the decision to use the Ghana Card as the required document for registering prospective voters may result in some persons losing their right to vote.
The Director of Electoral Services at the EC insists that its goal of getting all prospective voters onto the roll through using the card is attainable.
‘’We are convinced, that if we all focus on that and put our mind on it that it is achievable, it will be achieved," Dr. Serebuor Quaicoe said.
On August 1, 2022, the Commission announced that its ongoing registration process would make use of the Ghana Card as the only required document for proof of citizenship.
That, however, would amount to a disservice to Ghanaians, according to several political parties and civil society organizations.
A former Chairman of the EC, Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan has also spoken out against the decision explaining that "Ghanaian citizens don’t lose their citizenship if they are 18 years or older but do not have the Ghana Card."
"So, the moot question is: why make the Ghana Card the only means of identification for purposes of establishing eligibility to register to vote?” he questioned in an interview with the Daily Graphic.
However, Dr. Serebuor Quaicoe disputed these claims including allegations of illegality.
He expressed optimism that the 19 million Ghanaians who are eligible to vote will all be registered by the National Identification Authority before 2024.
But it was highlighted that, if necessary, the Commission might change its mind.
"It is only when probably, maybe we have gotten to the end of 2024 and there are issues, then the Commission may look at it but for now, we believe that we can achieve them. Even by the end of this year, I believe that they will be meeting the target," he added.
Latest Stories
-
Kufuor Scholar champions Agricultural Innovation through Fidelity GreenTech Challenge
3 mins -
EPL: Isak scores at home again as Newcastle beat Arsenal
12 mins -
I’m proud that despite all the challenges, we have maintained Free SHS – Akufo Addo
3 hours -
Alan’s running mate, KOD says GRASP will revolutionize care for the Elderly in rural areas
4 hours -
Election 2024: Alan paints Accra yellow as the crowd marches through the capital with him
4 hours -
Vacant seats: Speaker has not done what would have led to greater peace – Kofi Bentil
4 hours -
Police on manhunt for Adabraka daylight robbers
4 hours -
Lordina Mahama presents medical supplies and equipment to Tishigu Health Center
4 hours -
Lordina Mahama urges Ghanaians to prioritise regular health screenings
4 hours -
EC to reassess decision on presidential ballot printing next week – Dr Bossman Asare
5 hours -
Shark attacks surfer, 61, on Hawaiian island of Maui
5 hours -
29 Nigerian children may be sentenced to death for protesting against cost-of-living crisis
5 hours -
Nigerian becomes first black woman to lead major political party in the UK
5 hours -
Perception issues affecting Supreme Court – Nii Armah Addy
6 hours -
Armed men bolt with cash at Adabraka market in dramatic daylight robbery
6 hours